Thanksgiving Psychology: What You Eat Says About You
Thanksgiving psychology? Oh it’s a thing. Here’s why: Thanksgiving season, a time to spend with family and friends and think about food choices – what do they mean? Which cut of turkey will you ask for? Do you eat the skin? What about side items – have a preference? What does it say about you? Let’s dive into the psychology of your thanksgiving food choices (all for fun of course).
For the record, what’s the must have food for #Thanksgiving:
Kroger supermarkets asked people to name the top five MUST-HAVE Thanksgiving foods. So, if you could only have five things on the table, what would they be?
Here are the five Thanksgiving staples that got the most votes . . .
1. Turkey. 83% put it on their list.
2. Stuffing, 55%.
3. Mashed potatoes, 49%.
4. Gravy, 30%.
5. Pumpkin pie, 30%.
Thanksgiving Psychology: Eating Habits and You
First off, let’s dive into the turkey and your choice:
1. The White Meat First People (Breast Meat)
- Traits: Health-conscious, disciplined, pragmatic.
- Why: White meat is leaner and considered the “healthier” option, appealing to those who value balance and control.
- Psychological Angle: You appreciate structure and the stability of life. You’re also mindful of appearances and prefer a clean, straightforward approach to living.
2. The Dark Meat Fan (Thigh or Drumstick)
- Traits: Adventurous, indulgent, laid-back.
- Why: Dark meat is richer, juicier, and often considered more flavorful, attracting those who prioritize taste and comfort over convention.
- Psychological Angle: You’re all about living in the moment, enjoying life’s pleasures without overthinking. “Hey let’s have fun and roll with it” will be uttered by you at some point this Thanksgiving.
3. The Skin Lovers
- Traits: Decadent, bold, unapologetic.
- Why: The crispy, fatty turkey skin is a guilty pleasure that requires no justification for fans.
- Psychological Angle: You’re a rebel. It’s all about having fun – calories and fat grams be damned.
4. The Turkey Neck or Giblets Aficionados
- Traits: Creative, resourceful, traditional.
- Why: These less conventional parts of the turkey appeal to those who appreciate the whole bird and enjoy creating something special, like gravy or stock, from overlooked pieces.
- Psychological Angle: You’re sentimental and never throw anything away. Also very cost conscious.
5. The Wing Pickers
- Traits: Patient, meticulous, quirky.
- Why: Wings require effort to eat, and their fans often enjoy working for the flavorful bits.
- Psychological Angle: You’re a very methodical thinker. Not afraid of doing puzzles or other “brain games”. Detail oriented to a fault.
6. The “Turkey Avoiders” (Prefer the Sides or Skip It Entirely)
- Traits: Independent, selective, unconventional.
- Why: These people march to their own drumstick, finding joy in what everyone else might overlook.
- Psychological Angle: They are likely to question traditions and focus on what brings them personal satisfaction, often carving out (pun intended) your own journey in life.
Getty Images
Okay…what about the Thanksgiving Side Items?
What does it say about you – more Thanksgiving Psychology based on which one you’d pick first.
1. Green Bean Casserole Lovers
- Traits: Nostalgic, traditional, family-oriented.
- Why: This dish is a classic from the 1950s, so fans might enjoy comfort foods tied to family gatherings and a sense of belonging.
- Psychological Angle: You love stability and friends, this brings you joy. Nostalgia rules this time of year.
2. Stuffing (or Dressing) Devotees
- Traits: Practical, adaptable, social.
- Why: Stuffing is versatile, with endless variations. Fans of stuffing likely enjoy creativity within boundaries and savor a dish that brings everything together.
- Psychological Angle: You’re a team player, not afraid to pitch in and do whatever’s necessary to help.
3. Mashed Potato Enthusiasts
- Traits: Comfort-seeking, dependable, nurturing.
- Why: Mashed potatoes are pure comfort food—simple, warm, and satisfying.
- Psychological Angle: You’re the “rock” in your relationship, the stabilizing force in your family…reliable like mashed potatoes.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole Fans
- Traits: Adventurous, indulgent, playful.
- Why: The dish’s mix of savory and sweet (plus marshmallows!) appeals to those with a sweet tooth and a love of bold contrasts.
- Psychological Angle: You’re probably at the kids table as an adult. You have fun in life and love to treat yourself.
5. Cranberry Sauce Supporters
- Traits: Independent, quirky, spontaneous.
- Why: Cranberry sauce adds a zingy, tart contrast to the heavy meal. Its unique flavor attracts people who embrace individuality.
- Psychological Angle: You like to stand out and let people know about your life experiences. Life is better when there’s a little bit of zing or zest in it.
Bottom line when it comes to Thanksgiving
Eat what you want (this Thanksgiving Psychology test was just for fun anyway). Regardless, we judge people at thanksgiving on what they’re wearing, not what they eat (TOTALLY kidding).
Jim O'Brien is the Host of "Big Jim's House" Morning Show at 94.7 WCSX in Detroit. Jim spent eight years in the U.S. Naval Submarine Service, has appeared on Shark Tank (Man Medals Season 5 Ep. 2), raised over two million dollars for local charities and is responsible for Glenn Frey Drive and Bob Seger Blvd in the Motor City. Jim's relationship with Classic Rock includes considering Bob Seger, Phil Collen from Def Leppard, Wally Palmer of the Romantics and many others good friends. Jim writes about ‘80s movies, cars, weird food trends and “as seen on TikTok” content.
Sign Up For The 94.7 WCSX Classic Rock Insider Newsletter
Get the latest Classic Rock and local stories you need to know about, plus exclusive contests, games, and more!
By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.